Editors' Review

WinPatrol is a security program intended to help clean up your computer and protect against spyware, worms, and other things that might harm it or slow it down.

This security software is certainly not for the novice computer user. It's different from other software that typically scans for threats, and that's where it can get confusing. If you know an above-average amount of information about computers, you'll probably find certain tabs -- like Startup Programs and Delayed Start -- useful, but it's going to take a period of learning to really know what to do with ones like Cookies, File Types, and Hidden Files. This software does offer some Internet security, which we appreciated. The alert sound (dog barking) is cute but annoying after a while. Fortunately, that can be turned off. There's also a Help page for every tab -- though some of the tabs are not available in the free version -- and much of the information and instructions are written in a witty style, so even though you're taking in a lot of new information it won't be too boring or highbrow to understand. You're just simply not going to be able to enjoy the full benefits of this software right away, however, if you don't know much about the inner workings of your computer.

The download process was easy and simple. There weren't any problems while installing, either, so we're willing to give this a good rating.

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Publisher's Description

Clean up your Taskbar, ActiveX, Brower, and Startup programs. WinPatrol monitors and exposes adware, keyloggers, spyware, worms, cookies, and other malicious software. This program puts you back in control of your computer with no need for constant updates. WinPatrol's goal is to help you better understand what programs are running on your computer and to alert you to any new programs added without your permission. Unlike traditional security programs, WinPatrol doesn't scan your hard drive searching for previously identified threats. Instead, it uses a heuristic behavioral approach, taking a snapshot of your critical system resources, and then alerting you to any changes that occur without your knowledge.

You have, at your fingertips, information about what is running on your computer in every area you can think of. The 14 tabbed areas give you all the information you need or want. The wonderful thing is that you can actually DO something about those programs if they are slowing down your computer or creating any other kind of conflict. My computer takes a very long time to boot up because of all the programming I have installed that runs at start up. Through Win Patrol I have been able to speed things up by at least 50% by not having some of those programs run as I boot up. Win Patrol tells you something about everything you have running on your computer and if you have the "Plus" version, it gives you the many details you need about the program to consider stopping it from taking up valuable space. Try the free version . If you love it, subscribe to the Plus version for more in-depth information.

Cons

In my opinion, there are no cons associated with this program.

Summary

A great tool for your computer toolbox and a tremendous resource and source of information for the every day user.

Just install it and it takes care of itself, working in the background and popping up only when needed. Over the years I have never had a problem with it and believe it has greatly helped in keeping my computers safe.

Easy to use. Light on resources and easy to install. Does a great job managing your start up programs and snoops around for unwanted malware installations. Feature packed with goodies for your PC at a great cost.

Cons

No cons on this product.

Summary

Been using this product since v7 when the costs was really cheap. I have never paid for an upgrade since. I have used it on XP, Vista, Win7 and even on an old laptop running Win8 Consumer Review. I use it on multiple PC's with excellent results. I can't say enough about this product. It is a MUST have on all your PC's. It stops malware from installing and will ask you if you want ANY thing changed or installed. Highly recommended. Get it, set it and forget it. You will not regret it.

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